Chris Phillips' Wins Big Bet

Chris Phillips spends most of his days confined to a wheel chair due to his cerebral palsy. However, he's a 13-year old boy with a zest for a life and a passion for football. His physical therapist, Dana Gifford, thought of a great challenge to help Chris learn how to use crutches so he can be more mobile. Chris is a major fan of the University of Michigan, much to Dana's chagrin. She loves Ohio State and they often banter back and forth about who has the better team.

Dana made a deal with Chris. She would wear a Michigan jersey if he could walk across a room with his crutches. Chris took the bet and worked hard to win. While he was practicing, Dana wrote to the University of Michigan about the tenacity of this young man. Much to her surprise, the University sent back a package to her to present to Chris with a t-shirt, two baseball hats and a football -- all signed by head football coach, Rich Rodriguez.

Dana made arrangements to surprise Chris with his winning loot. During the K99.1FM Cares for Kids Radiothon, Nancy Wilson and Frye Guy interviewed Chris and his family. This was the perfect time to present Chris with his reward. A picture says it best - the grin was worth a thousand words. What did Chris have to say? "Go Blue!"

Miracles happen when our donors listen to the Radiothon. Kenny Kirby, a wonderful supporter of Dayton Children's, heard Chris' story and wanted to help. Within hours, he arranged for two tickets for Chris and his dad (an Ohio State fan), to attend the Ohio State vs. Michigan game that following Saturday. Special seating was organized for Chris by the OSU staff and he and his father were able to watch the game in Columbus. Kenny has one more surprise in store for Chris that he will get for Christmas. We won't ruin the surprise, but we'll simply ask you to tune back in for the rest of the story!

We believe there are 18 ways we're just right for our region's kids! Learn more and share your story atjustrightforkids.org.